Since the word "sucks" does not have an origin that would make it a good word to use in many contexts, I want to know whether there is a cleaner alternative. I tried searching the thesaurus, but couldn't find any. Is there a cleaner alternative that can be used in all the contexts that "sucks" is used?

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It depends. Can you give example context and sentences in which you'd want 'sucks' replaced? Are you wondering about 'Your dog died? That sucks' or 'That guy sucks at math.' or 'Go suck an egg' or 'Suck on it, dipwad!' or 'Where the bee sucks, there suck I" or etc, etc, etc. All these contexts are different.
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MitchAug 30 '12 at 19:34

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Why look for an alternative for all contexts? A one-size-fits-all word makes one's message almost meaningless. English has such a rich lexicon, why not find a specific word to express exactly what you mean? :)
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ZairjaAug 30 '12 at 19:43

2 Answers
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While sucks is a verb form, most of the terms that convey similar meaing are adjectives. The primary connotation of sucks is that the referent, whether a person, object, action or state of being, is very bad or awful (as in That sucks).

Agh, two downvotes. What am I doing wrong? Soliciting critiques, else I can delete.
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ZairjaAug 30 '12 at 20:05

"We expect answers to be supported by facts, references, or specific expertise". Generally speaking, well reasoned answers which provide reliable citations to back up their claims are well received.
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MετάEdAug 30 '12 at 20:33